Sands Draw Basin Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Sands Draw Basin Detention Dam, located in Solomon, Arizona, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
Completed in 1972, this gravity dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the San Simon River. With a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1317.3 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 141.9 acres, providing vital protection to the surrounding area.
Despite its crucial role in mitigating flood risks, the condition assessment for Sands Draw Basin Detention Dam is currently rated as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and improvements. The dam has a low hazard potential but carries a moderate risk level, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The last inspection was conducted in July 2015, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years, emphasizing the importance of regular assessments to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the structure.
As a key component in the flood risk reduction infrastructure of Graham County, Sands Draw Basin Detention Dam plays a vital role in protecting the community from potential disasters. With its stone core and uncontrolled spillway, this dam stands as a crucial defense against flooding events in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and improving such structures to ensure their long-term functionality and effectiveness in safeguarding our environment and communities.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
4850 |
River Or Stream |
SAN SIMON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
141.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
43.4 |
Nid Storage |
1317.3 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River At Duncan
|
29cfs |
Gila River At Head Of Safford Valley
|
74cfs |
Frye Creek Near Thatcher
|
1cfs |
Gila River Near Clifton
|
45cfs |
Bonita Creek Near Morenci
|
3cfs |
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
59cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Sands Draw Basin Detention Dam